Gatto, Portantino appointed to California Film Commission

Assemblyman Mike Gatto -- whose district includes the studio-heavy cities of Burbank, Glendale and part of Hollywood -- has been appointed to the California Film Commission.

The commission handles permitting for filming on state property, and supports in-state film production through tax credits and other assistance – an important role given the recent years long trend of film shoots moving out of state to take advantage of lower costs.

In a statement Tuesday, Gatto said he was proud to have been appointed to the commission given the fact that he represents “many of the studios, executives, creative and technical staff and talent that make up one of California’s most critical industries.”

Gatto, appointed Assembly Speaker John Perez, joins 21 other members on the commission. Among them is Anthony Portantino, who worked in film and television prior to representing La Cañada and Pasadena in the Assembly from 2006 until terming out of office in December.

Portantino also served on the film commission during his time in office.

In a statement Tuesday, Portantino said he was “very grateful” for the appointment, which would allow him to continue his passion for working in the film industry.

“Anthony has been a consistent champion of the film and television industry and in the effort to keep this vital industry right here in California,” the commission’s chairman, Keith Weaver, said in a statement. “We are so glad to have him back.”